On October 13, 2006 PAWS Therapy experienced a tremendous blow. Ann Havard, our friend and one of our therapy dog handlers, passed away from a sudden illness. Most people knew Ann for her therapy work but she was so much more than that. She was a tremendous comfort to anyone that knew her. She held a passion for pet therapy and an even deeper passion for animal welfare. Always going the extra mile to help homeless animals, fostering one of the shelter dogs during heartworm treatment, volunteering many hours during Hurricane Katrina at the emergency animal shelter. Ann did all of these things with the kindest of hearts and the compassion of 100 people.

On the first Saturday of every month, Ann and her therapy dog Mac brought smiles to the residents of Landmark Retirement Home, laughter to the children at the Ouachita Valley Branch Library, and compassion to the patients at Glenwood Hospital. Ann and Mac were the type of therapy team that made other teams stand back in awe. Always sensing which room to linger in because the resident needed extra comfort. Having the ability to understand every conversation and reply with just the right words. Having a calming effect on others just by entering a room. It was truly amazing to watch Ann and Mac in action.

Ann being an occupational therapist by profession, she touched so many lives. On October 17th we held a memorial service so that her beloved dogs, Mac & Molly could attend an event in celebration of her. We were thrilled with the attendance of people from all walks of her life. We learned new things such as Ann's involvement of teaching blind children how to water ski and the impact she had on her profession with the training of fellow constituents all over the country. You see, Ann was a very humble person. She never bragged on the lives that she touched. To her it was second nature. One of our therapy teams said she was born for this work. I could not say it better. Since October 13th so many of us have asked the question why. Why was such a beautiful, caring person taken from us? Her departure has left a void in our hearts and the hearts of those she knew. But she left us with a feeling of wanting to be a better person and to reach for the sky in everything we do. Thank you Ann. Thank you for being our friend and thank you for making our lives better while you were with us. We will miss you forever!

If you are like most of us and Ann Havard touched your life in a profound way, please email us at pawsnela@yahoo.com and we will post your condolence on our website. Use Ann Havard as your attention line.

Steven McKinney, camp director at MedCamps of Louisiana wrote:

I would like to extend our deepest condolences regarding Ann's passing. She will be missed. I attended Ann's memorial and was deeply touched by the stories about her. She was a remarkable lady and if it provides any solace, know she and her dog Mac brought happiness to a child's life. That is how she will be remembered by Med-Camps. You all are in our prayers.